possess

UK: pəˈzes | US: pəˈzes

Definition

  1. vt. to own or have something as a property

  2. vt. to dominate or control someone’s mind or behavior

  3. vt. (of a spirit or emotion) to inhabit or influence a person

Structure
pos <toward>sess <sit>pos <toward>sess <sit>
Etymology

The word "possess" originates from Latin possidēre ("to occupy, hold"), combining pos- (denoting ability or power) and sedēre ("to sit"). The concept evolved from physical occupation (e.g., land) to abstract control (e.g., emotions or objects). The morpheme sess reflects the idea of "sitting" in ownership, while pos emphasizes authority.

Examples

  1. She possesses a rare collection of vintage coins.

  2. The idea seemed to possess his mind entirely.

  3. Legends say the forest is possessed by ancient spirits.

  4. He was arrested for possessing illegal substances.

  5. Her confidence possesses a magnetic charm.